Some of you may be in shock when I say this, but I actually like hockey — and no, it’s not because of the players (even though Ryan McDonagh is a stud). There is just something that makes me excited when I hear the sound of skates on the ice, screaming fans and the smell of the Garden on game day. Plus, nothing, and I mean nothing, says home like the sweet sound of 20,000 people cheering along to the "Potvin Sucks" chant.
Being a female hockey fan, I have to deal with ridiculous claims and accusations. Please, can someone tell me why it's so hard for men to understand that a female can both enjoy and understand a sport without drooling over the men who play it? Wow, shocking, I know.
Here are 10 struggles that us female hockey fan go through during the season.
1. Being asked about the players on the team.
I’m sorry, but this is my biggest pet peeve of being a female hockey fan. I’m watching a game on TV, or playing NHL 16, and someone always ask me different questions about the Rangers. I don’t ask you questions about your team, so don’t ask me about mine, especially when I’m watching the game. I grew up watching the Rangers. I know players from the '94 team and players on the team now!
2. Not enough female clothing at sport stores.
This makes me mad. I walk into the local store to grab new Rangers gear and the only thing the store sells is either men’s or youth. I do not want to wear a men’s shirt or hoodie (unless it's my guy friend's). The only place that probably sells a good amount of women’s NHL clothing is the NHL store in NYC.
3. I will respect your team, if you respect mine.
As a Rangers fan, I can never get away from those boasting Flyers fans, which is funny because where were those fans now? Hey Philly, the bandwagon called — they want their fans back. Don't talk badly about my team. Just watch your back, buttercup.
4. “Oh, you want to chill? Sorry, it’s Hockey Season.”
Unless I am going to a hockey game or going to a friend’s house to watch hockey, you will not be seeing me for about six months. If the Rangers make it to the playoffs, it will be longer. And if you do not like it, how are we friends?
5. “This is not a phase.”
Being a fan is a long lasting responsibility. I’ve basically been a fan of hockey since I was born. Don’t try and tell me that this is only a stage; it is definitely not. It is eternity. It’s like being married. Until death do us part.
6. Female jerseys should not exist.
I’m sorry, but I feel that wearing a pink Rangers jersey to a game is horrible. People won’t take me seriously! Unless it's for a breast cancer game you're going to, jerseys should be one style and one size only!
7. Do not try to tell me what is happening. Just don't!
I am not even kidding; if you try to explain to me what is going on I might slap you. I know my hockey knowledge; I’m not clueless.
8. Hockey fights!
Where do I even start with this topic? Hockey fights just make the game so much better. Seeing your team’s player possibly knock out a tooth or break the nose of the opponent. Heck, you don’t see Curry throw punches at Wade. Hockey is the best contact sport out there. It just sucks when the refs have to end it.
9. The awkward girls-night-out talks.
While the other girls talk about the Kardashians or some other celebrity, I’m sitting on the floor reading the latest updates about what’s going on in the NHL. Sorry not sorry that I’m not caring about One Direction breaking up. I’m more worried about how many fights Tanner Glass got into in tonight’s game.
10. Playoffs and the cup.
The hardest struggle for both male and female fans. Being a hockey fan during this time of the year is crazy! It is the decisive moment for teams and fans. The passion the fans have for their team and against their team's opponent. The yelling and cursing that happens more than ever. In the end, it is worth it because everyone is fighting for the Stanley Cup. The cup is probably the coolest trophy any athlete could win. It truly does distinguish the professionals from the amateurs, and the winner ends up making Lord Stanley proud. Do not even get me started on overtime. That is a heart attack ready to happen. 
Hockey is a fast-paced game that will always bring you to the edge of your seat. Just don’t blink or you might just miss a goal.
